U.S. patent application number 13/299266 was filed with the patent office on 2012-05-31 for control system and method for managing wireless and wired components.
Invention is credited to Terrence R. Arbouw, Ronald K. Bender, Michael D. Crane, Ronald J. Cummings-Kralik, Thomas J. Hartnagel, Robert A. Martin, Peter A. Moyle, Gregory F. Smith, Theodore E. Weber, Stephan K. Zitz.
Application Number | 20120136485 13/299266 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46127150 |
Filed Date | 2012-05-31 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120136485 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Weber; Theodore E. ; et
al. |
May 31, 2012 |
Control System and Method for Managing Wireless and Wired
Components
Abstract
System and method provide wireless distributed lighting control
systems implementing a secure peer-to-peer, self-organizing and
self-healing mesh network of actuators and system inputs. The
system and method can be designed specifically for indoor and
outdoor lighting where actuators include in-fixture, on-fixture and
circuit control modules with ON/OFF and full range dimming
capabilities, and system inputs include occupancy/vacancy sensors,
daylight sensors and switches. A unique messaging protocol
facilitates wireless and wired communication between actuators and
system inputs, and provides web-based commissioning and monitoring
of the lighting control system using a wireless access point
accessible from a local network or Internet which can provide an
intuitive and easy to use Graphical User Interface (GUI).
Inventors: |
Weber; Theodore E.; (Round
Rock, TX) ; Arbouw; Terrence R.; (Georgetown, TX)
; Bender; Ronald K.; (Dripping Springs, TX) ;
Cummings-Kralik; Ronald J.; (St. Louis, MO) ; Crane;
Michael D.; (Round Rock, TX) ; Hartnagel; Thomas
J.; (Taylor, TX) ; Martin; Robert A.;
(Pflugerville, TX) ; Moyle; Peter A.; (Austin,
TX) ; Smith; Gregory F.; (San Antonio, TX) ;
Zitz; Stephan K.; (Round Rock, TX) |
Family ID: |
46127150 |
Appl. No.: |
13/299266 |
Filed: |
November 17, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61415721 |
Nov 19, 2010 |
|
|
|
61527058 |
Aug 24, 2011 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
700/275 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H05B 47/19 20200101;
G05B 15/02 20130101; G05B 2219/2642 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
700/275 |
International
Class: |
G05B 13/00 20060101
G05B013/00 |
Claims
1. A lighting system comprising: a plurality of luminaires for
illuminating a space; a plurality of actuators respectively
associated with said luminaires to selectively control illumination
output by said respective luminaires; and a plurality of input
modules, each configured to process information associated with at
least a portion of said space and to communicate results of said
processing to at least one of said plurality of actuators, wherein
at least one selectively designated input module of said plurality
of input modules is associated with an identifier indicative of a
control perimeter within said space, at least one selectively
designated actuator of said plurality of actuators is associated
with said identifier, said selectively designated input module
wirelessly communicates said results of said processing to said
selectively designated actuator, and said selectively designated
actuator controls illumination output of at least one of said
luminaires associated therewith based on said wirelessly
communicated results of said processing.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein each actuator of said plurality
of actuators comprises a microprocessor; a radio module connected
to said microprocessor to communicate received wireless
communication to said microprocessor and transmit wireless
communication from said microprocessor; and at least one relay
connected to said microprocessor for selectively controlling power
to at least one of said luminaires associated with said
actuator.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein said plurality of actuators
comprises at least one of an in-fixture module (IFM), an on-fixture
module (OFM), and a smart pack (SP); and said plurality of input
modules comprises at least one of an occupancy or vacancy sensor
(OS), daylight sensor (DS), and a switch (SW), each of the IFM, OFM
and SP comprising a radio module (RM), said IFM, OFM and SP
communicating wirelessly via the RM.
4. The system of claim 2, wherein at least one actuator of said
plurality of actuators forms a node in a wireless self-healing
self-forming mesh network.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein said node further comprises at
least one input module of said input modules in wired communication
with said at least one actuator; and said results of said
processing by said at least one input module are communicated
wirelessly to at least one other actuator forming another node in
said mesh network via said radio module of said at least one
actuator.
6. The lighting system of claim 2, wherein at least one of said
actuators further comprises a dimming circuit for controlling
variable light output by at least one of said luminaires associated
therewith.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one of said input
modules comprises a sensor for monitoring changes in at least one
of occupancy, vacancy and daylight within at least a portion said
space.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein said plurality of actuators form
a corresponding plurality of nodes in a wireless self-healing
self-forming mesh network.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein said space comprises a plurality
of control perimeters, said system comprises a plurality of
identifiers respectively indicative of said plurality of control
perimeters, and each of said plurality of actuators and each of
said plurality of input modules is associated with at least one of
said respective plurality of identifiers.
10. The system of claim 9, wherein said space comprises a plurality
of areas, each of said areas comprises a plurality of zones, each
of said zones comprises a plurality of groups, each of said control
perimeters is associated with one of said areas, one of said zones,
and at least one of said groups, and each of said plurality of
identifiers comprises information indicative of said one of said
areas, said one of said zones, and said at least one of said
groups.
11. The system of claim 10, wherein at least one of said areas,
zones or groups is indicative of a location within said space.
12. The system of claim 1, further comprising a wireless server
module for at least one of commissioning, monitoring and
controlling said actuators and said input modules, said service
module communicating wirelessly with said actuators and said input
modules and connecting via a TCP/IP to a server in a local area
network.
13. The system of claim 12, further comprising a controlling user
interface (UI) deployed for said commissioning, monitoring and
controlling said actuators and said input modules via said wireless
service module, said UI including web pages that reside on a web
server accessible by a web browser.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein said controlling user interface
and said wireless service module are configured to selectively
designate at least one said actuators and at least one of said
input modules with said identifier.
15. A system comprising: a plurality of lighting devices; a
plurality of wireless modules; a plurality of environmental
sensors; a wireless access point; and a controller, wherein at
least one of said wireless modules controls light output of at
least one of said lighting devices based on an output of at least
one of said environmental sensors associated with said at least one
of said wireless modules by a selectively defined identifier, said
output of said at least one environmental sensor comprising
information indicative of said selectively defined identifier, and
said controller communicates via said access point with said at
least one of said wireless modules and said at least one of said
environmental sensors to associate said selectively defined
identifier with said at least one of said wireless modules and said
at least one of said environmental sensors.
16. The system of claim 15, wherein said wireless modules include
at least one of an in-fixture module (IFM), and an on-fixture
module (OFM); said wireless access point comprises a web-based
interface for commissioning and monitoring at least one of said
plurality of wireless modules; said wireless access point
communicates with at least one of a local area network and the
Internet, over a wired connection; said wireless access point
communicates wirelessly with at least one of the wireless modules
using radio frequency communication; and said controller comprises
at least one computer in communication with at least one of said
local area network and the Internet.
17. The system of claim 15, wherein said plurality of wireless
modules form a wireless mesh network; and communication among said
plurality of said wireless modules and said access point is in
accordance with a communication protocol having a packet
format.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the communication protocol
comprises first messages from the access point to the wireless
modules Broadcast for reply by said wireless modules, or Multicast
for reply by certain of said modules, said first messages
comprising a from address of said access point; second messages in
reply to said first message by each of the addressed wireless
modules, said second messages comprising at least one of a from
address and configuration parameters of said wireless modules;
third messages from the access point to a specific one of said
plurality of wireless modules Unicast for reply by said specific
one of said plurality of wireless modules, said third message
comprising the from address of the access point; and fourth
messages in reply to said third messages, whereby said specific one
of said plurality of wireless modules sends said fourth message
comprising data from said at least one environmental sensor
associated with said specific one of said plurality of wireless
modules.
19. The system of claim 18, wherein said first, second and third
messages do not include data from said environmental sensors.
20. The system of claim 18, wherein said fourth messages do not
include a from address of said specific one of said plurality of
wireless modules.
21. The system of claim 15, wherein at least one of said plurality
of lighting devices comprises a light fixture.
22. The system of claim 15, wherein at least one of said plurality
of environmental sensors comprises an occupancy sensor, a
temperature sensor, a power consumption sensor, or a daylight
sensor.
23. An actuator comprising: a microprocessor; a radio module
connected to said microprocessor to communicate received wireless
communication to said microprocessor and transmit wireless
communication from said microprocessor; at least one relay
connected to said microprocessor for selectively controlling power
to at least one load associated with said actuator; at least one
port configured to receive input from an input device plugged into
said at least one port; at least one interface providing
communication between said input device plugged into said at least
one port and said microprocessor to enable the plug and play
support for said input device; and a power module supplying voltage
to power to said microprocessor, said radio module, and said
interface, wherein said plug and play support includes said
microprocessor automatically recognizing said input device,
adapting input and output processing to receive input information
from said input device, and based on said input information
selectively modifying said wireless communication from said
microprocessor or selectively modifying said power to said at least
one load.
24. The actuator of claim 23, wherein said input device comprises
one of an occupancy sensor, a vacancy sensor, a daylight sensor, or
a switch.
25. The actuator of claim 23, further comprising a plurality of
ports, wherein said interface comprises a bus providing said
communication between one or more input devices plugged into said
plurality of ports and said microprocessor, said microprocessor
automatically recognizing said input devices, adapting input and
output processing to receive input information from each of said
input devices, and based on said input information selectively
modifying said wireless communication from said microprocessor or
selectively modifying said power to said at least one load.
26. The actuator of claim 23, wherein said power module supplies
voltage to said port to power said input device.
27. A method for controlling lighting, the method comprising
configuring a plurality of luminaires for illuminating a space;
associating a plurality of actuators with said luminaires, each of
said actuators selectively controlling illumination output by at
least one of said luminaires; configuring a plurality of input
modules to process information associated with at least a portion
of said space and to communicate results of said processing to at
least one of said plurality of actuators; associating at least one
selectively designated input module of said plurality of input
modules with an identifier indicative of a control perimeter within
said space; associating at least one selectively designated
actuator of said plurality of actuators with said identifier;
wirelessly communicating said results of said processing by said
selectively designated input module to said selectively designated
actuator; and controlling illumination output of at least one of
said luminaires associated with said selectively designated
actuator based on said wirelessly communicated results of said
processing.
28. The method of claim 27, wherein at least one of said input
modules comprises a sensor for monitoring changes in at least one
of occupancy, vacancy and daylight within at least a portion said
space.
29. The method of claim 27 further comprising configuring said
plurality of actuators to form a corresponding plurality of nodes
in a wireless self-healing self-forming mesh network.
30. The method of claim 27, further comprising defining a plurality
of control perimeters within said space; defining a plurality of
identifiers respectively indicative of said plurality of control
perimeters; and associating each of said plurality of actuators and
each of said plurality of input modules with at least one of said
respective plurality of identifiers.
31. The method of claim 30, further comprising defining a plurality
of areas associated with said space; defining a plurality of zones
associated with each of said areas, defining a plurality of groups
associated with each of said zones, associating each of said
control perimeters with one of said areas, one of said zones, and
at least one of said groups, and defining each of said plurality of
identifiers to include information indicative of said one of said
areas, said one of said zones, and said at least one of said
groups.
32. The method of claim 27, further comprising configuring a
controller to communicate with said actuators and said input
modules via an access point, wherein wireless communication between
said access point, said actuators and said input modules comprises
first messages from the access point to the said actuators and said
input modules Broadcast for reply by said actuators and said input
modules, or Multicast for reply by certain of said actuators and
said input modules, said first messages comprising a from address
of said access point; second messages in reply to said first
message by each of said addressed actuators and input modules, said
second messages comprising at least one of a from address and
configuration parameters of said addressed actuators and said input
modules; third messages from the access point to a specific one of
said actuators and said input modules Unicast for reply by said
specific one of said actuators and said input modules, said third
message comprising the from address of said access point; and
fourth messages in reply to said third messages, whereby said
specific one of said actuators and said input modules sends said
fourth message comprising data from said one of said input
modules.
33. A system comprising: a plurality of luminaires for illuminating
a space; a plurality of actuators respectively associated with said
luminaires to selectively control illumination output by said
respective luminaires; a plurality of input modules, each
configured to process information associated with at least a
portion of said space and to communicate results of said processing
to at least one of said plurality of actuators; a wireless access
point; and a controller, wherein each of said plurality of input
modules and said plurality of actuators is associated with at least
one of a plurality of identifiers each indicative of a control
perimeter within said space, each of said actuators controls said
illumination output by at least one of said respective luminaires
based on said results of said processing by those of said input
modules associated with the same one of said plurality of
identifiers as said each of said actuators, and said controller
communicates via said access point with said at least one of said
actuators and said input modules to associate at least one of said
identifiers with each of said actuators and said input modules.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119(e)
of U.S. provisional patent applications Ser. No. 61/415,721 filed
Nov. 19, 2010, and Ser. No. 61/527,058 filed Aug. 24, 2011, the
disclosures of both of which (including all attachments filed
therewith on Nov. 19, 2010 and Aug. 24, 2011, respectively) are
hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The invention is in the field of wireless and wired lighting
control systems. Generally, the system provides a solution for
wirelessly controlling indoor and/or outdoor lighting luminaires or
fixtures. The system includes wireless devices that receive signals
from various sensors and other control devices and respond by
taking appropriate action to control, for example, the light output
of light fixtures. These wireless devices communicate with each
other via a radio module (RM) embedded in each device. A
controlling user interface (UI) can be deployed to monitor and
control the system's wireless devices via web-based communication
provided by a web server module that can communicate wirelessly
with the system's wireless devices. The UI can include web pages
that reside on a web server accessible by a standard web browser.
Such a web browser can run on one or more computers connected to
the web server. Connection to the web server can be wireless or
wired through, for example: (1) a local area network, or (2) the
internet by, for example, local or remote access to the internet,
or (3) both.
[0004] 2. Discussion of the Background of the Invention
[0005] The use of wireless control is one of the most exciting
frontiers in lighting control, offering significant potential
benefits over traditional wired solutions for both existing
buildings and new construction. In a typical wired lighting
controls system, control signals are sent (either one-way or both
ways) using low-voltage communications wires. In a wireless system,
devices communicate through the air utilizing radio frequency (RF)
waves without the need for communications wiring. Wireless
solutions substantially reduce the installed cost of lighting
controls by negating the need for expensive dedicated control
communications wiring.
[0006] Over the past decade, major advancements have been made that
have significantly enhanced the capability and reliability of RF
communications of all kinds. These advancements have made it
feasible for control manufacturers to economically deploy RF
wireless control strategies to overcome barriers related to
hardwired control systems.
[0007] Use of RF wireless controls for both residential and
commercial applications continues to grow. It is generally accepted
that with the new technologies now available, RF wireless controls
will become more widely adopted in commercial applications.
[0008] As the cost of energy continues to escalate, the value of
highly tuned and capable lighting solutions, which capitalize on
both energy efficient lighting fixtures and aggressive energy
saving control strategies, will continue to grow. The use of RF
wireless control strategies will enable deployment of control
strategies not possible or economically prohibitive using
traditional wired control techniques.
[0009] There are various conventional systems and methods for
monitoring and controlling remote wireless communication devices
including sensors or actuators employed in the lighting industry.
Such conventional wireless communication devices are described in,
for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,870,080, 7,167,777, 7,346,433, and
7,812,543, and U.S. Published Patent Applications Pub. Nos.
2008/0097782, 2010/0007289, 2010/0280677, and 2010/0301781.
[0010] There are numerous examples of conventional systems where
laptop computers, servers or workstations connected to the Internet
or an intranet (such as a wide area network, a local area network
or a series of linked, local networks) control remote wireless
devices by means of local gateways that broadcast commands to
remote wireless devices. Such conventional systems and methods are
described in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,028,522, 6,218,953,
6,430,268, 6,437,692, 6,891,838, 6,914,893, 7,053,767, 7,103,511,
7,468,661, 7,650,425, 7,697,492, 7,978,059, and U.S. Published
Patent Applications Pub. Nos. 2005/0201397, 2009/0243840,
2010/0194582, and 2010/0312881.
[0011] Typically, wireless communications in these conventional
systems are achieved by local gateways designed to "broadcast"
commands to wireless devices, and by wireless devices that
"broadcast" responses or other information. When "broadcast," the
information is transmitted or re-transmitted indiscriminately to
all wireless devices within the range of the broadcast. Thus, such
wireless communications employ conventional protocols and message
formats where all wireless transmissions (such as commands or
responses) include fields identifying a wireless device that the
message is addressed "To," the wireless device the message is
addressed "From," and the content of the message.
[0012] That is, without the "From" information, data contained in a
broadcast response cannot be matched to the wireless device
actually providing the data. Accordingly, in conventional systems,
responses broadcast from a wireless device (by either direct
transmission to a local gateway, or re-transmission by other
wireless devices in the network) must include the wireless device's
"From" information.
[0013] Drawbacks of such conventional communication protocols and
message formats include: (1) a longer message structure, which may
result in greater likelihood of transmission errors in a wireless
communication; (2) a more complicated communication protocol, which
may require mapping of communication paths between local gateways
and wireless devices to ensure efficient delivery of commands and
responses; (3) need for additional processing capability in
wireless devices to ensure proper transmission and re-transmission
of responses, which may increase the cost of deploying and
maintaining the system; and (4) limited capability to associate
sensors with actuators, which inhibits flexibility to deploy and
commission wireless devices, sensors or actuators to monitor and
control lighting in selectively defined locations within a
three-dimensional space or volume.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention address at
least the above problems and/or disadvantages and provide at least
the advantages described below.
[0015] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a
lighting control system including a wireless, distributed, secure,
peer-to-peer, self organizing and self healing mesh network of
actuators, which include fixture control modules, and system
inputs, which include occupancy/vacancy sensors, daylight sensors
and switch stations.
[0016] According to an exemplary implementation of an embodiment of
the present invention, the system provides control for indoor and
outdoor lighting applications.
[0017] An exemplary implementation of an embodiment of the present
invention provides a system capable of turning lighting loads
on/off as well as full range dimming of dimmable lighting
loads.
[0018] In another exemplary implementation of an embodiment of the
present invention, a system provides plug and play support for
occupancy sensors, daylight sensors and switch stations. An
exemplary system will automatically and intelligently respond to
connected devices to provide the most energy efficient
operation.
[0019] In yet another exemplary implementation of an embodiment of
the present invention, a system is accessible remotely from a local
network or the Internet using any standard Internet browser. An
exemplary system does not require any special client side computer
software to be installed for accessibility.
[0020] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a
system including a luminaires for illuminating a space, actuators
respectively associated with the luminaires to selectively control
illumination output by the respective luminaires, input modules,
each configured to process information associated with the space
and to communicate results of their processing to the actuators, a
wireless access point, and a controller. In an exemplary
implementation, each of the input modules and actuators is
associated with identifiers each indicative of a control perimeter
within the space, each of the actuators controls illumination
output by the respective luminaires based on the results of
processing by those of the input modules associated with the same
identifier as the actuators. In yet another exemplary
implementation, the controller communicates via the access point
with the actuators and input modules to associate identifiers with
each of the actuators and input modules.
[0021] Yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention
provides a method for controlling lighting including configuring
luminaires for illuminating a space, associating actuators with the
luminaires, each of the actuators selectively controlling
illumination output by at least one of said luminaires, configuring
input modules to process information associated with the space and
to communicate results of their processing to the actuators,
associating input modules with identifiers indicative of a control
perimeter within the space, associating the actuators with the
identifiers, wirelessly communicating results of the processing by
the input modules to actuators that have the same identifier as the
input modules, respectively, and controlling illumination output of
the luminaires associated with the actuators based on the
wirelessly communicated results of the processing by the respective
input modules.
[0022] In an exemplary implementation of certain embodiments of the
present invention the space where the lighting is to be controlled
is defined by a plurality of areas, each of the areas comprising a
plurality of zones, each of the zones comprises a plurality of
groups. Accordingly, control perimeters to facilitate flexible
lighting control within the space can be associated with one of the
areas, one of the zones, and at least one of the groups, and
identifiers associated with system's input modules and actuators
comprise information indicative of said one of the areas, said one
of the zones, and said at least one of the groups.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] A more complete appreciation of the present invention and
many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained
as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following
detailed description when considered in connection with the
accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0024] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic representation of a system
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 2 is a top plan diagram of an exemplary facility
implementing a lighting system according to an exemplary embodiment
of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 3 is a graphical representation of a system
configuration and communication protocol for system components
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a system actuator constituted
by an on-fixture module according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention.
[0028] FIG. 5 is a more detailed block diagram of a system actuator
constituted by an on-fixture module according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a system actuator constituted
by an in-fixture module according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention.
[0030] FIG. 7 is a more detailed block diagram of a system actuator
constituted by an in-fixture module according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a system actuator constituted
by a smart power pack according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention.
[0032] FIG. 9 is a more detailed block diagram of a system actuator
constituted by a smart power pack according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a wireless system sensor
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a wired system sensor
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[0035] FIG. 12 is a detailed block diagram of a wireless system
sensor which may be constituted as an occupancy/vacancy sensor,
daylight sensor and/or as switch according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 13 is a detailed block diagram of a wired system sensor
which may be constituted as an occupancy/vacancy sensor, daylight
sensor and/or as switch according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention.
[0037] FIG. 14 provides graphical representations of system sensors
constituted as switches according to exemplary embodiments of the
present invention.
[0038] FIG. 15 is a circuit diagram illustrating a zero cross
detector with AC voltage magnitude sense output to monitor voltage
for power measurements according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention.
[0039] FIG. 16 is a circuit diagram illustrating a current zero
cross detector that includes a current sensor according to an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention
[0040] FIG. 17 is a graphical representation of communication in a
self-organizing, self-healing mesh network that may be utilized in
an exemplary embodiment of a system according to the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0041] Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference
numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the
several views, embodiments of the present invention are shown in
schematic detail.
[0042] The matters defined in the description such as a detailed
construction and elements are nothing but the ones provided to
assist in a comprehensive understanding of the invention.
Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that
various changes and modifications of the embodiments described
herein can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of
the invention. Also, well-known functions or constructions are
omitted for clarity and conciseness. Exemplary embodiments of the
present invention are described below in the context of commercial
application (e.g., office buildings, outdoor parking lots and
parking garages). Such exemplary implementations are not intended
to limit the scope of the present invention, which is defined in
the appended claims.
[0043] Certain terms of art that may be used in the description
have commonly accepted definitions as noted below:
[0044] AES-128--Advanced Encryption Standard 128 bit encryption
key
[0045] DHCP--Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol
[0046] DNS--Domain Name Server
[0047] FCC--Federal Communications Commission
[0048] HTTPS--Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure
[0049] IC--Industry Canada
[0050] ISM Band--Industrial, Scientific and Medical radio frequency
band
[0051] MAC--Media Access Control
[0052] RF--Radio Frequency
[0053] SNAP--Synapse Network Appliance Protocol
[0054] SPST--Single Pole, Single Throw
[0055] SSL--Secure Sockets Layer
[0056] TCP/IP--Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol
[0057] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a
system comprising wireless, distributed and intelligent lighting
control devices including but not limited to control modules with
ON/OFF and full range dimming capabilities, and system input
devices including but not limited to occupancy/vacancy sensors,
daylight sensors and manual switch stations.
[0058] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a wireless lighting system
100 configured according to an embodiment of the present invention
to includes light fixtures 114, 116, 118 and actuators 108, 110,
112 that respectively control light output by theses fixtures to
illuminate a certain three dimensional space, or volume, such as in
a building or a parking lot, or both. System 100 also includes
input modules 102, 104 and 106 that provide information about the
space. As illustrated in the example of FIG. 1, actuators 108, 110
and 112 communicate wirelessly with each other, and can wirelessly
receive information about the space from any one of the input
modules 102, 104 and 106 using a messaging protocol according to an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention to produce desired
light level output from the light fixtures 114, 116 and 118 based
on properly routed and received information from input modules 102,
104 and 106.
[0059] As further illustrated in FIG. 1, a controlling user
interface (UI) can be deployed on one or more computers 122, 124 to
monitor and control the system's wireless devices via web-based
communication provided by a web server module 120 that can
communicate wirelessly with the system's wireless devices 108, 110,
112 and 126 (as well as modules 102, 104 and 106 by virtue of their
connection to wireless devices 126 and 112, respectively). The UI
can include web pages that reside on a web server accessible by a
standard web browser. Such a web browser can run on one or more
computers connected to the web server wirelessly or by wire
thorough, for example: (1) a local area network 136, or (2) the
Internet 128 by, for example, local or remote access to the
Internet, or (3) both.
[0060] A system according to an exemplary implementation of the
present invention has an architecture that utilizes SNAP to create
a peer-to-peer, self-organizing and self-healing mesh network
infrastructure where wireless devices form nodes of the mesh
network. Such a system does not require a master
controller/coordinator or master node devices for proper system
operation. Instead, all nodes are capable of communicating with
each other without the need of such single point of failure
devices. This allows efficient setup and communication over fairly
wide areas without the need for high powered wireless transmitters
since the mesh nodes receive and retransmit messages
[0061] As illustrated in the example of FIG. 17, in a mesh network
1700 all nodes 1710, 1712, . . . 1734 act as repeaters forwarding
messages not for them on to nodes that may be out of range of the
node that sent a message. By this method, a message propagates
outward from the source (for example, from originating node 1710)
and then from node to node until the destination (for example,
nodes 1726 and 1734) is reached even in view of obstructions 1740
preventing direct node-to-node communications, or disabled nodes
1730. In an exemplary implementation, messages have a "life
counter" which is decremented after each mesh hop to eventually
stop retransmission and thus cut down on network traffic.
[0062] In the exemplary implementation of a self-organizing system,
the mesh network of devices can be built automatically without the
need to manually set device addresses via dials, DIP switches or
other means. An exemplary implementation of s self-healing system
provides system devices within the mesh network that automatically
reroute messages around a failed device (see, for example FIG. 17,
which illustrates rerouting around failed node 1730) to ensure
message delivery.
[0063] In an exemplary embodiment of a system according to the
present invention, the system's architecture facilitates data
transmission between wireless devices over the 900 MHz (902 MHz-928
MHz) ISM RF band with a supported RF range of, for example, 300 ft.
between wireless devices. Such a system may use, for example, SNAP
communication protocol to transmit/receive and negotiate messaging
among wireless devices. The system may also utilize, for example,
spread spectrum frequency hopping to facilitate robust
communication and prevent the unauthorized interception of messages
over the air and to comply with FCC requirements.
[0064] In an exemplary implementation, a system according to an
embodiment of the present invention can secure all messages. For
example, when transmitting over the air, each wireless device of
the system can use AES-128 security cipher to encrypt and decrypt
messages. A secure HTTPS/SSL protocol may be used when, for
example, users access the system via an Internet browser.
[0065] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention as
described in more detail below, a system includes input devices
deployed in a three-dimensional space or volume to monitor and
communicate changes such as occupancy, daylight levels and manual
switch input. To implement lighting control strategies, exemplary
system architecture facilitates the association of such system's
input devices to the system's control modules, which may include
actuators to control, for example, lighting within the space.
[0066] According to yet another exemplary implementation, a system
is configured for accessed from a local network or the Internet
using any standard Internet browser and includes a Graphical User
Interface (GUI) to configure, control, monitor and/or schedule
individual devices or groups of devices of the system. System
devices may also be capable of having their firmware updated or
upgraded over the air, i.e., wirelessly via RF.
[0067] A wireless lighting control system 100 according to an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention as illustrated in a
block diagram of FIG. 1 can include a wireless mesh network of
sensors and actuators designed specifically for lighting control
applications. Sensors can include switches 102, occupancy/vacancy
sensors 104 and daylight sensors 106. Actuators can include
wireless devices such as in-fixture module (IFM) 108, on-fixture
module (OFM) 110 and "smart" power packs (SP) 112 with On/Off
control and/or dimming capabilities, where dimming can be
implemented by, for example, 0 to 10 variable DC voltage (VDC)
control. In the example of FIG. 1, wireless devices 108, 110 and
112 can be respectively associated with, and control, fixtures 114,
116 and 118.
[0068] In the example of FIG. 1, system 100 components can
communicate by wireless connectivity 128 via a Radio Frequency
(RF), or by wired connectivity 130. The wireless connectivity 128
provides communication among system 100 wireless devices, and can
be implemented as a peer-to-peer, self-healing mesh network. On the
other hand, the wired connectivity 130 provides communication with
system 100 sensors, and can be implemented as a, for example
topology-free or fixed-topology, bus where any one of the wireless
device (for example, SP 112 of FIG. 1) can have one or more
receptacles to allow easy interconnection with one or more sensors
(for example, sensor 104 and/or DS 106 of FIG. 1) via industry
standard connectors.
[0069] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, system
100 has a wireless server module including AP 120 to facilitate
web-based commissioning and monitoring of system 100, particularly
its actuators and sensors. As illustrated in the example of FIG. 1,
a controlling UI can be deployed to monitor and control the
system's wireless devices via the web-based communication
facilitated by the AP 120 that can communicate wirelessly with the
system's wireless devices and connects via a TCP/IP to a server in
a local area network 128.
[0070] The UI can include web pages that reside on a web server
accessible by a standard web browser. Such a web browser can run on
one or more computers 122 and/or 124 connected to the web server.
Connection to the web server can be wired or wireless communication
134 through, for example: (1) a local area network 136, or (2) the
Internet 138 by, for example, local or remote access to the
Internet, or (3) both.
[0071] As illustrated in FIG. 2, according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention, a lighting control system 200
comprises (1) actuators, which include IFMs 208, OFMs 210 and SPs
212, and (2) sensors, which include switches 202, occupancy/vacancy
sensors 204, and daylight sensors 206. The system also provides
wireless access to its actuators and sensors via AP 220, for
scheduling and data harvesting by means of web-based control
devices (see FIG. 1 illustrating computer 122 and 124 in
communication with AP 120 connected to local area network 136).
[0072] Sensors 204 and 206 can be deployed within a space, such as
inside a building, to monitor changes such as occupancy/vacancy or
daylight in certain portions of the space or the entire space as
desired and based on, for example, size and configuration of the
space, as well as, for example, range and/or sensitivity of the
sensors. In an exemplary implementation, sensors can also receive
input from users to set their operational parameters such as
sensitivity or timing as described in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos.
5,640,143 and 5,699,243, the entire disclosures of both of these
patents being incorporated herein by reference. In an exemplary
implementation, the function of these sensors is to monitor a
portion or all of the space for changes and communicate the changes
they perceive over the system's wireless mesh network.
[0073] According to an exemplary implementation, the sensors are
not responsible for the implementation of the system's lighting
control strategy, and the control strategies are the responsibility
of the actuators including wireless devices 108, 110 or 112.
[0074] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, sensors of a wireless lighting control system are
associated with actuators using an area/zone/group assignment
strategy which can be indicative of, for example, a
three-dimensional control perimeter within a three-dimensional
space or volume. That is, actuators that are assigned to a certain
control perimeter(s) (as defined by the area/zone/group assignment)
use information only from those sensors programmed to participate
in the same control perimeter(s) (as defined by the area/zone/group
assignment).
[0075] For example, a system implementing such assignment strategy
can be deployed in a facility or building comprising a plurality of
areas, zones and groups. An advantageous, non-limiting exemplary
implementation may define one facility/64 areas/64 zones/16 groups.
Each sensor and actuator may be programmed to participate in only
one area and zone. On the other hand, each sensor or actuator may
be assigned to one or all of the available groups within the
area/zone.
[0076] For example, a facility may constitute a building, an area
may be defined as a floor of the building, a zone may be defined as
one or more rooms or locations on the floor, and a group controls
the assignments of sensors and actuators within the zone.
[0077] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of sensors 300, 302, 304, 308,
308 and 310, and actuators (associated with respective fixtures)
312, 314, 316, 318, 320 and 322, deployed in an area/zone/group
configuration according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention. To visualize this concept, an "area" can be viewed as a
method of separating buildings or floors, a "zone" as a method of
separating individual rooms or locations of control, and a "group"
as a method of configuring control assignments within the "zone."
In the example of FIG. 2, the area/zone/group assignment of various
control devices (i.e., sensors and fixture modules) can be
summarized in the following table.
TABLE-US-00001 Device 300 302 304 306 308 310 312 314 316 318 320
322 Area 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Zone 1 2 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 Group
3 1 1, 2 1 2 1, 2 1 3 1 1 2 2
[0078] In the example of FIG. 3, occupancy sensor 304 and switch
310 are programmed to participate in area 1, zone 1, and groups 1
and 2. Such programming can be achieved by, for example, an
area/zone/group identifier, which can be considered to define a
control perimeter 330 within a space 380, and can be included in
messages communicated among the system's actuators and sensors
according to an exemplary communication protocol (described in more
detail later in this specification). Accordingly, in the example of
FIG. 3, information from occupancy sensor 304 and switch 310 is
communicated to: (1) control fixture modules 316 and 318 programmed
to participate in area 1, zone 1, and group 1; and (2) control
fixture modules 320 and 322 programmed to participate in area 1,
zone 1, and group 2.
[0079] Fixture modules 316 and 318 also receive information from
occupancy sensor 306 likewise programmed to participate in area 1,
zone 1, and group 1 (control perimeter 340). On the other hand,
fixture modules 320 and 322 also receive information from ambient
light sensor 308 likewise programmed to participate in area 1, zone
1, and group 2 (control perimeter 350). Therefore, fixture modules
316 and 318 are programmed to actuate associated fixture lights
based on information only from the two occupancy sensors 304 and
306, and a switch 310, while fixture modules 320 and 322 are
programmed to actuate associated fixture lights based on
information only from occupancy sensor 304, switch 310 and an
ambient light sensor 308.
[0080] In an exemplary implementation of the embodiments of the
present invention, fixture modules 320 and 322 can be programmed
with an information processing algorithm. For example, in
accordance with such an algorithm, fixture modules 320 and 322
actuate (turn on or off) associated lights based on a set of rules
that take into account motion detected by sensor 304, light level
sensed by sensor 308, and position of switch 310. An exemplary set
of rules of an information processing algorithm programmed in
fixture modules 320 and 322 may include the following: if motion is
detected by sensor 304 turn the lights on, unless ambient light
detected by sensor 308 is above a threshold level, then keep the
light off, unless ON command is received from switch 310, then turn
the lights on.
[0081] As further illustrated in the example of FIG. 3, two other
control perimeters 360 and 370 are defined in space 380 by (1) area
1, zone 1, and group 3, and (2) area 1, zone 2, and group 1,
respectively. As shown in FIG. 3, a control perimeter can comprise
a single sensor and a single module: (1) control perimeter 360
includes fixture module 314 which receives information only from
occupancy sensor 300, both programmed to participate in area 1,
zone 1, and group 3; and (2) control perimeter 370 includes fixture
module 312 which receives information only from occupancy sensor
302, both programmed to participate in area 1, zone 2, and group
1.
[0082] According to an exemplary implementation, area, zone and
group assignments, as well as information processing algorithms,
may be programmed directly into system sensors and actuators via a
commissioning tool such as a computer.
[0083] The following is a detailed description of exemplary
implementations of system actuators including OFMs, IFMs and SPs
that can use SNAP to participate in a secure, peer-to-peer,
self-organizing and self-healing mesh network and to
transmit/receive and negotiate messaging between wireless devices
using, for example, SNAP communication protocol.
[0084] On-Fixture Module (OFM)
[0085] Referring to a block diagram of FIG. 4, according to an
exemplary implementation, OFM 400 includes a radio module (RM) 408
to transmit and receive information wirelessly over, for example, a
900 MHz (902 MHz-928 MHz) ISM RF band within a supported RF range
of, for example, 300 ft. between wireless devices.
[0086] An OFM 400 can, for example, mount to a conventional
controlled outdoor lighting fixture 406 via a NEMA GTL receptacle
interface commonly used for the connection of a twist-lock
photocell controller. An exemplary implementation of an OFM 400 in
a system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention supports universal input voltage 402 (120-347 VAC, 50/60
Hz) and includes, for example, a SPST relay 404 for On/Off control
of a load 406. An OFM 400 can be compatible with incandescent,
magnetic and electronic lighting loads 406 including LED drivers.
In an exemplary implementation, OFM 400 implements zero arc point
switching circuitry and programming in control block 410 of the
type described in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,821,642, the entire
disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference, to
preserve contact life of relay 404.
[0087] Referring to FIG. 5, in an exemplary implementation, an OFM
500 is designed with a GTL plug 520 to reside on the top of a light
fixture 502, for example, a street light or parking lot light
(typically called "cobra heads" in the industry), that has a
built-in NEMA twist-lock GTL receptacle 504. The three-conductor
receptacle 504 allows an inserted device 500 to control the on/off
operation of the light 502, which in the example of FIG. 5 includes
a ballast 506 powering lamp 508. In an advantageous embodiment, OFM
500 includes an integrated daylight sensor (constituted by
photocell 510 and microcontroller 512, which among other tasks,
processes photocell data to evaluate ambient light level). A
translucent top housing of OFM 500 allows photocell 510 of the
daylight sensor to receive ambient light.
[0088] An exemplary OFM 500 is a self-contained intelligent
wireless control module that provides on/off lighting control for
outdoor lighting fixture(s) 502 based on, for example, any one or
combination of preloaded schedules programmed into microcontroller
512, RF commands via radio module 514, and/or the light available
based on information from photo cell 510. OFM 500 can include an
internal power conversion module 522 that provides low voltage
power to, for example, microcontroller 512, photocell 510 and RM
514. In a system according to embodiments of the present invention,
each OFM can be individually controlled or grouped with other
wireless devices, and communicates via RF to other devices within
the system's self-healing mesh network.
[0089] When attached to a fixture 502, the OFM 500 can provide the
following exemplary non-limiting functionality.
[0090] 1. On/off control of the fixture can be implemented using,
for example, a relay 516 that closes to complete the power circuit
or opens to interrupt the flow of current to the light fixture 502.
[0091] a. The relay 516 can be controlled remotely via commands
received by the RM 514 and interpreted by the embedded
microcontroller 512. [0092] b. The relay 516 can be controlled
locally by the embedded microprocessor 512 based on the
interpretation of signals from, for example, a photocell 510 which
is part of OFM 500. For example, the relay 516 can be commanded to
close (turn on the light) when the natural, ambient light is below
a specified level. [0093] c. The relay 516 can be controlled
locally by the embedded microprocessor 512 based on, for example,
schedules previously downloaded via the RM 514. These schedules can
be generated by a user accessing a Web Server. For example, a
schedule could be created that would turn the lights on Monday
through Friday at 6:00 p.m. and off at 6:00 a.m.
[0094] 2. Monitoring of the controlled fixture 502 for diagnostic
and informational purpose is performed, for example, in OFM 500
containing sensors (not shown) that can measure current, voltage
and temperature of the fixture being controlled. [0095] a. For
example, AC current from AC source 518 can be measured without
attaching directly to the power line using a Hall Effect current
sensor. The AC line passes through a piece of U-shaped ferrite
material that concentrates the magnetic field of the conductor into
the sensor. AC current information can be used to monitor energy
usage and also as an indication of degrading lamp operation. As the
lamps, e.g. 508, in the fixture 502 age, they consume more current.
A rise in current consumption can be used as a remote indication
that the lamp will need to be replaced soon. [0096] d. AC voltage
can be measured using, for example, the microcontroller's 512
analog to digital converter (not shown). [0097] e. Temperature can
be measured using an internal resistor network in, for example, the
RM 514. [0098] f. Both current and voltage zero crossings are
detected by circuitry which is associated with, or a part of
microcontroller 512. This information can be used to determine
proper time to actuate the relay 512. It can also be used to
determine the power factor of the controlled fixture load 502.
[0099] g. Various statistics relating to the operation of the
fixture can be recorded and accumulated in the processor's 512
non-volatile memory. For example, total on time of the fixture is
stored. This can be accessed remotely via, for example, the Web
Server through the wireless link, making it unnecessary to travel
to the physical location of the fixture to check its status.
Maintenance can be scheduled based on this information.
[0100] In-Fixture Module (IFM)
[0101] Referring to block diagram of FIG. 6, according to an
exemplary implementation, IFM 600 shares much of the electrical and
firmware design with an OFM 400 including, for example, control
610, an RM 608, a relay 604 that controls power to load 614, and
line voltage input 602. On the other hand, IFM 600 can have a
different physical form factor, lacks a photocell, adds dimming
capabilities 602, and adds options for controlling a second relay
606 in addition to first relay 604 to control power to a second
load 612. The IFM 600 can be housed in, for example, a rectangular
plastic assembly, suited for installation in a fluorescent fixture
ballast tray. It can also be installed in the body of an external
lighting fixture that does not have a GTL receptacle. There are
provisions for an external antenna connection via an industry
standard RP-SMA connector.
[0102] Referring to FIG. 7, IFM 700 is a self-contained intelligent
wireless control module with either one or two independently
controlled outputs via relays 740 and/or 706, and a dimming control
output via dimmer circuit 702. Each IFM can control one or more
fixtures 714 and/or 712, and can be individually controlled or
grouped with other wireless devices. When attached to fixture 714
and/or 712, the IFM 700 can provide exemplary non-limiting
functionality analogous to that of OFM 500 as descried above.
[0103] IFM 700 can communicate wirelessly via RM 708 with other
devices within the system's wireless self-organizing and
self-healing mesh network. IMF 700 includes, for example, a
programmable microcontroller 710 powered by a power conversion
module 722, which (as in the case of an OFM) converts high voltage
from AC source 718 to a suitable DC voltage to power
microcontroller 710 and RM 708.
[0104] Smart Pack (SP)
[0105] Referring to FIG. 8, an exemplary implementation of SP 800
is a self-contained intelligent wireless power pack, containing
either one or two independently controlled outputs via relays 804
and/or 806, and a dimming control output via dimmer circuit 802. SP
800 shares much of the electrical and firmware design with an OFM
400 and IFM 600 including, for example, control 810, an RM 808, a
relay 804 that controls power to load 814, and line voltage input
802. On the other hand, SP 800 can have a different physical form
factor, and like IFM 600 lacks a photocell, has dimming
capabilities 802 and has options for controlling a second relay 806
in addition to first relay 804 to control power to a second load
812. FIG. 9 illustrates in more detail an exemplary implementation
of SP 900, which, when attached to fixture 814 and/or 812, can
provide exemplary non-limiting functionality analogous to that of
IFM 500 and as descried above.
[0106] In addition, referring to FIG. 8, the SP features, for
example, four ports 830, 832, 834 and 836, that can provide plug
and play support for, for example, occupancy sensors (OS), daylight
sensors (DS) and manual control switches (SW). When devices are
plugged into any of the ports 830, 832, 834 and/or 836, the control
810 of SP 800 automatically and intelligently responds to the
plugged-in devices to provide the most energy efficient operation.
In an exemplary implementation, whenever a device is added or taken
away, control 810 of SP 800 can automatically reconfigure the
control system to the most user friendly energy wise configuration
without user input.
[0107] As illustrated in the example of FIG. 9, SP 900 (as in the
case of OFM 500 and IFM 700) can communicate wirelessly via RM 908
with other devices within the system's wireless self-organizing and
self-healing mesh network. SP 900 includes, for example, a
programmable microcontroller 910 that provides control output
signals to relay 904 and/or 906, and dimmer circuit 902. SP 900 can
be powered by an internal power conversion module 922, which (as in
the case of an OFM 500 and IFM 700) converts high voltage from AC
source 918 to a suitable DC voltage to power microcontroller 910
and RM 908.
[0108] In addition, in an exemplary implementation as illustrated
in FIG. 9, SP 900 includes an interface 950 that facilitates
communication between devices plugged into any of the ports 930,
932, 934 and/or 936 and microcontroller 910 to enable the plug and
play support. In yet another advantageous exemplary implementation,
interface 910 facilitates power output from power conversion module
922 to power devices plugged into some or all of the ports 930,
932, 934 and/or 936. In an exemplary implementation, some or all of
the ports 930, 932, 934 and/or 936 are configured as an RJ45, which
is known in the industry.
[0109] The following is a more detailed description of system
sensors according to exemplary embodiments of the present
invention. As discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2,
system sensors can include, for example, switches (SW), occupancy
sensors (OS) and daylight sensors (DS). As illustrated in the block
diagram of FIG. 10, system sensor 1000 can be wireless. Or, as
illustrated in the block diagram of FIG. 11, system sensor 1100 can
be wired. Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, according to exemplary
implementations, both wireless and wired system sensors include
control 1010, 1110, respectively, comprising a microprocessor
configured to receive and process information from input devices
1020, 1120, respectively, such as manual switches, photoelements of
daylight sensors, or infrared/ultrasonic/microwave circuits of
occupancy sensors.
[0110] In the example of FIG. 10, wireless system sensor 1000
includes RM 1030 to facilitate wireless communication with the
system's other wireless devices. On the other hand, as illustrated
in the example of FIG. 11, wired system sensor 1100 includes ports
1132 and/or 1134 to facilitate communication with the system's
other wired devices. For example, wired system sensor 1100 can be
connected to SP 900 via, for example, a standard RJ45 cable
connection as a plug and play component, as described above.
[0111] FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary implementation of a system
wireless sensor module 1200 according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention. Operation and processing of module 1200 is
controlled by a programmable microcontroller 1210 which receives
and transmits information to other system devices via RM 1230.
Microcontroller 1210 receives input from input devices such as, for
example, one or more switches 1222 and/or one or more occupancy
sensors and/or daylight sensors 1220. In an exemplary advantageous
implementation, a wireless sensor module 1200 includes only one of
components 1222 or 1220. As further illustrated in the example of
FIG. 12, microcontroller 1210 is in two-way communication with RM
1230 and sensor(s) 1220, whereby microcontroller can receive and
process input from, as well as provide commands and data to, RM
1230 and sensor(s) 1220. Components 1210, 1220 and 1230 of module
1200 can be powered by, for example, a self-contained power source
1240 such as a battery, energy harvester, leakage to ground, or
other source as known in the art of power sources.
[0112] FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary implementation of a system
wired sensor module 1300 according to an exemplary embodiment of
the present invention. Operation and processing of module 1300 is
controlled by a programmable microcontroller 1310 which receives
and transmits information to other system devices via interface
1350 which connects to ports 1332 and 1334. Microcontroller 1310
receives input from input devices such as, for example, one or more
switches 1322 and/or one or more occupancy sensors and/or daylight
sensors 1320. In an exemplary advantageous implementation, a
wireless sensor module 1300 includes only one of components 1322 or
1320. As further illustrated in the example of FIG. 13,
microcontroller 1310 is in two-way communication with interface
1350 and sensor(s) 1320, whereby microcontroller 1310 can receive
and process input from, as well as provide commands and data to,
interface 1350 and sensor(s) 1320. Components 1310, 1320 and 1350
of module 1300 can be powered by, for example, a self-contained
power conversion module 1340 which, for example, converts DC
voltage received from ports 1332 and/or 1334 to DC voltage usable
by components 1310, 1320 and 1350.
[0113] It should be noted that, while wired sensor module 1300 does
not have a built-in wireless communication capability such as that
of wireless sensor module 1200, in an exemplary advantageous
implementation of a system according to an embodiment of the
present invention, when module 1300 is connected to an SP 900 (see
FIG. 9) via a plug and play connection, information from input
device 1322 and/or 1322 can be communicated by wire (for example,
via RJ45 connection) to SP 900, and then wirelessly to other system
components via RM 908 of SP 900 by the same messaging protocol
using, for example, area/zone/group designations.
[0114] Exemplary implementations of OS, DS, SW and RM components
are described in more detail as follows.
[0115] Occupancy Sensors (OS)
[0116] OS can be, for example, a ceiling mount or a wall mount
sensor that includes, for example ultrasonic (US) and passive
infrared (PIR) technologies individually or in combination, to turn
lighting on and off based on occupancy. OS sensors may also include
adaptive sensitivity and timing technologies as described in, for
example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,640,143 and 5,699,243, which would make
such sensors' adjustments automatic.
[0117] In an exemplary implementation, OS can operate in one of two
modes, "vacancy" or "occupancy," where, for example, when set to
vacancy OS can, while in the occupied mode, transmit an occupied
message with an indication that the sensor has been programmed for
the vacancy mode of operation. When, for example, set to occupancy,
OS can while in the occupied mode, transmit an occupied message
with an indication that the sensor has been programmed for the
occupancy mode of operation.
[0118] OS can be configured to transmit a status update (Occupied
or Unoccupied) to its assigned area/zone/group(s), for example,
once every minute.
[0119] In an exemplary implementation, in order for devices
controlled by the occupancy sensors to be protected from being left
in the occupied state in the event that an occupancy sensor goes
off line while it is in the occupied state, such devices can
monitor the occupied message and upon the absence of an occupied
message for more than certain period of time, for example, two
minutes, assume the space is no longer occupied and take
appropriate action as determined by its control algorithms.
[0120] In an exemplary implementation, in order to allow devices
returning from a power outage or coming on line for the first time
to know if they are or are not controlled by an OS, the OS can
transmit an unoccupied message, for example once every minute,
while the space is unoccupied.
[0121] Daylight Sensors (DS)
[0122] In an exemplary implementation, DS measure outdoor light,
ambient light or daylight levels and send the information to, for
example, an SP or an IFM, which then performs switching or dimming
functions taking into account the light level information provided
by DS.
[0123] Switches (SW)
[0124] SW provide manual control within the system, and include an
on/off switch, a General-A/V switch for switching between general
lighting and audio/video (A/V) lighting, a High/Low/Off switch for
High/Low lighting control, an On/Raise/Lower/Off switch, a
Raise/Lower switch, a Timed On switch and a 4-button Preset switch.
In an exemplary implementation, SWs are wires sensor modules (see
FIGS. 11 and 13) that integrate within a system by being connected
to the system's SP (see FIGS. 8 and 9) as conceptually shown in
FIGS. 1, 2 and 3.
[0125] Referring to FIG. 14, an example of SW is a single gang
switch station 1410 with two momentary push buttons On/Off. When
the On button 1412 is momentarily depressed, the switch station
1410 can transmit an On command to its assigned area/zone/group(s).
When the Off button 1414 is momentarily depressed, the switch
station 1410 can transmit an Off command to its assigned
area/zone/group(s).
[0126] Referring to FIG. 14, another example of SW is a single gang
switch station 1420 with two momentary push buttons GEN/AV. When
the GEN button 1422 is momentarily depressed, the switch station
1420 can transmit an A On/B Off command to its assigned
area/zone/group(s). When the AV button 1424 is momentarily
depressed the switch station 1420 shall transmit an B On/A Off
command to its assigned area/zone/group(s).
[0127] Referring to FIG. 14, another example of SW is a single gang
switch station 1430 with three momentary push buttons High/Low/Off.
When the High button 1432 is momentarily depressed, the switch
station 1430 can transmit an On command to its assigned
Area/Zone/Group(s). When the Low button 1434 is momentarily
depressed, the switch station 1430 can transmit an A On/B Off
command to its assigned Area/Zone/Group(s). When the Off button
1436 is momentarily depressed, the switch station 1430 can transmit
an Off command to its assigned Area/Zone/Group(s).
[0128] Referring to FIG. 14, another example of SW is a single gang
switch station 1440 with two momentary push buttons Raise/Lower.
When the Raise button 1442 is momentarily depressed, the switch
station 1404 can transmit a Raise command to its assigned
area/zone/group(s). When the Lower button 1444 is momentarily
depressed, the switch station 1440 can transmit a Lower command to
its assigned area/zone/group(s). If the Raise or Lower buttons are
pressed continuously (i.e., held down), the switch station 1440
can, for example, repeatedly transmit the appropriate Raise or
Lower command, for example every 500 milliseconds.
[0129] Referring to FIG. 14, another example of SW is a single gang
switch station 1450 with four momentary push buttons
On/Raise/Lower/Off. When the On button 1452 is momentarily
depressed, the switch station 1450 can transmit an On command to
its assigned area/zone/group(s). When the Raise button 1454 is
momentarily depressed, the switch station 1450 can transmit a Raise
command to its assigned area/zone/group(s). When the Lower button
1456 is momentarily depressed, the switch station 1450 can transmit
a Lower command to its assigned area/zone/group(s). When the Off
button 1458 is momentarily depressed, the switch station 1450 can
transmit an Off command to its assigned area/zone/group(s). If the
Raise or Lower buttons are pressed continuously (i.e., held down),
the wireless switch station 1450 can, for example, repeatedly
transmit the appropriate Raise or Lower command, for example every
500 milliseconds.
[0130] Referring to FIG. 14, another example of SW is a single gang
switch station 1460 with six momentary push button Presets (1-6).
When any one of preset buttons 1461-1466 is momentarily depressed,
the switch station 1460 can transmit a Do Preset (1-6) command to
its assigned area/zone/group(s). If a Preset button is momentarily
depressed a second time within five seconds, the Do Preset (1-6)
command sent to its assigned area/zone/group(s) will cause the
receiving device to cancel the Fade Rate and go to the state
recorded for the requested preset immediately. If the Preset button
is pressed continuously for more than five seconds, the switch
station 1460 can transmit the Record Preset (1-6) command to its
assigned area/zone/group(s) which will cause the receiving device
to record its current state as the requested preset number.
[0131] Referring to FIG. 14, another example of SW is a single gang
switch station 1470 with one momentary push button Timed On. When
the Timed On button 1472 is momentarily depressed, the switch
station 1470 can transmit a Timed On command to its assigned
area/zone/group(s). If the Timed On button 1472 is depressed
momentarily, while a Timed On is active, the switch station 1470
can transmit a Timed On command to its assigned area/zone/group(s)
which will cause the Timed On duration to be reset. If the Timed On
button 1472 is depressed and held for five seconds, the switch
station 1470 can transmit an Off command to its assigned
area/zone/group(s).
[0132] Radio Module (RM)
[0133] In exemplary implementations, RM provides the wireless
communication infrastructure upon which the system platform
according to an embodiment of the present invention can be based.
The OFM, IFM, SP and wireless system sensors all have RMs inside of
them as illustrated in the examples of FIGS. 4-10 and 12.
[0134] In an exemplary non-limiting implementation, the module
itself is approximately one inch square and one quarter inch thick.
It can have legs like a Dual In-Line Package (DIP) integrated
circuit and can be soldered to or socketed on an additional carrier
board. The RM provides communication and the carrier board provides
the appropriate device functionality, such as relay control or
dimming. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the
RM is not a stand-alone device and is attached to, for example, a
carrier board.
[0135] In an exemplary implementation, RM includes a
microprocessor, radio, and antenna matching network. An external
antenna connector may or may not be populated, depending on the
required functionality of the module. The initial frequency range
of the radio can be, for example, 902 MHz to 928 MHz, but this can
be changed with some antenna matching component and firmware
modifications. The radio can use frequency hopping across channels,
for example 75 channels, within the range to avoid collisions with
other devices that may be broadcasting at interfering
frequencies.
[0136] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a
system (as illustrated for example in FIGS. 1 and 2) of occupancy
sensors, light fixtures, daylight sensors, and switches that use
transceivers to communicate wirelessly with each other, or through
a wireless access point (or router) AP to a network of one or more
computers 124. The wireless nature of this system permits rapid,
cost effective deployment of the system and retrofitting of prior
lighting systems without the costs and installation burden of
running network cables to each fixture in the system. Additions,
replacements and reconfiguration are readily performed through the
wireless communications and computer-based interface to system
components facilitated by AP whose functionality is described in
more detail as follows.
[0137] Wireless Access Point (AP)
[0138] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, AP is a web-based device for commissioning and
monitoring devices within the system's wireless mesh network. The
AP provides a graphical user interface for scheduling and
controlling individual devices or groups of devices enabled within
the system. In an exemplary implementation, the AP instantiates an
embedded web server that can be accessed via a standard web
browser. An interface to the AP could be a point to point
connection directly to a PC, or through the "web" as illustrated in
the example of AP 120 in FIG. 1.
[0139] In an exemplary implementation, AP is a stand-alone device
that is used to control and communicate with the IFM and OFM. It
may include, for example, an embedded microprocessor with external
SDRAM and flash memory, an 10/100 MBit Ethernet interface with
Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability, and a Radio Module with
external antenna. For example, a version of the Linux operating
system may run on the processor. As illustrated in the example of
FIG. 1, the AP 120 can provide a bridge between wired Ethernet
communications, such as communication 128 associated with a local
area network 136, and wireless RM communications 130 associated
with wireless mesh network. The AP can be housed, for example, in a
plastic box slightly larger than a conventional PC 4-port router or
switch.
[0140] In an exemplary implementation, AP instantiates control and
status functions via the web pages that are resident on the server.
Users can communicate with the AP via any standard Internet
browser, such as Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari or Chrome. A
benefit of this exemplary approach is that no additional client
software needs to be installed on the user's PC. For example, many
of the control and status functions can use GUI paradigms, such as
drag and drop, hierarchical folders, tabs and graphical calendar
scheduling, familiar to Internet browser users.
[0141] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, some of the functions that can be made available when
employing an AP are as follows: [0142] 1. Discovery and
commissioning of new system devices. [0143] 2. Assigning and
organizing area, zone and group device associations using drag and
drop operations. [0144] 3. Button and slider bar controls for
operations such as turning relays on and off and fixture dimming.
[0145] 4. Dashboard status displays on a device-by-device basis of
temperature, current, voltage, power factor, cumulative powered-on
time and other information. [0146] 5. Over the air firmware updates
of the devices in the system network. [0147] 6. Data and
communication security via AES 128 Encryption.
[0148] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, it is possible to have more than one AP in a given
system. It is also possible that at any given time information on
AP will change and will have to be relayed to another AP. This can
be achieved by, for example, an AP broadcasting a message to the
other AP(s) indicating a configuration change when necessary. Each
AP then updates its configuration database to maintain coherency
across the system.
[0149] According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, actuators that include switching components (for
example, SW) can use falling-edge zero-cross detection for two
purposes beyond the relay activation to ensure switching on
zero-crossing of an AC waveform. For example, by synchronizing the
voltage zero-cross and current zero-cross to the same timer, the
differences in their occurrence equates to lead/lag time, which can
be used by user software to measure power factor. Also, the
measured period can be used to calculate a quarter cycle and take
peak magnitude readings at a later interrupt. An example of a zero
cross detector circuit 1500 with AC voltage magnitude sense output
1510 to monitor voltage for power measurements is illustrated in
FIG. 15. An example of a current zero cross detector circuit 1600
that includes a current sensor 1610 is illustrated in FIG. 16.
[0150] According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present
invention the wireless communication between the wireless devices
and/or nodes (OFM, IFM and SP) of the system is described with
reference to an exemplary implementation of a system communication
protocol that provides five classes or types of messages that are
transmitted amongst nodes in the mesh network of the wireless
lighting control system including: Broadcast, Area, Zone, Group,
and Unicast messages. The messages transmitted among the nodes
include information for addressing the messages to the nodes,
message type and payload, as well as other messaging features.
[0151] According to an exemplary implementation, the underlying
mesh network protocol can utilize SNAP to create a peer-to-peer,
self-organizing and self-healing mesh network infrastructure. In
such an exemplary implementation, as illustrated in a conceptual
diagram of FIG. 17, all wireless devices are nodes within the
system's mesh network configured as peers to each other that can
also act as repeaters that forward messages to other wireless
devices that are out of range of the device(s) originating the
message (providing a virtually unlimited network size). The
system's mesh network can be self organizing (it builds
automatically), without requiring a coordinator, thus avoiding a
single point failure. The system's network can also be self healing
such that wireless devices will automatically reroute messages
around a failed device to ensure message delivery.
[0152] According to an exemplary implementation of the present
invention, a communication protocol is implemented for transmitting
messages amongst nodes in the system's wireless control network
with the following features: multi-hop (multi-radius) mesh,
auto-forming network; no required coordinator; unique network
identifiers for each node via MAC addresses; and no single point of
failure. In particular, according to an exemplary embodiment, by
utilizing SNAP in the underlying mesh network, a coordinator is not
required for transmitting messages amongst nodes in the system's
mesh network. That is, messages can be transmitted from one node to
other node(s), utilizing unique network identifiers for each node
defined by area/zone/group association as described above.
[0153] An AP can be used in an exemplary system to provide access
to the system's network from a local network or the Internet, as
illustrated for example in FIG. 1, via a standard browser.
According to an exemplary embodiment, the AP is a web-based device
for commissioning and monitoring devices (and/or groups of devices)
within the system's wireless mesh network. As illustrated in the
example of FIG. 1, AP communicates with a local area network, or
the Internet, over wired TCP/IP connections using HTTPS/SSL, and
wirelessly when transmitting to other devices within the system's
wireless self-healing mesh network, for example, over the 900 MHz
radio frequency using 128-bit AES. That is, according to an
exemplary embodiment, the AP communicates, for example, (1) over
wired TCP/IP connections with the local network or the Internet,
and (2) wirelessly, for example over 900 MHz radio frequency, with
other wireless components ("nodes") within the system's wireless
mesh network. Thus, AP can provide a bridge between wired Ethernet
communications, and wireless RM communications.
[0154] As explained above, an exemplary implementation of a system
according to the present invention may include one or more of the
following components: [0155] (1) Ceiling Mount and Wall Mount
Occupancy/Vacancy Sensor ("OS"); [0156] (2) Daylight Sensor ("DS");
[0157] (3) On-Fixture Module ("OFM"); [0158] (4) In-Fixture Module
("IFM"); [0159] (5) Switch ("SW"); [0160] (6) Smart Pack ("SP");
and [0161] (7) Wireless Access Point ("AP").
[0162] The OFMs, IFMs and SPs are wireless components that enable
wireless communication between OS, DS and SW. That is, in a system
according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the
wireless components are "nodes" within a wireless mesh network
configured as peers to each other that can also act as repeaters
that forward messages to other wireless components that are out of
range of the device(s) originating the message. Such a capability
provides a network of virtually unlimited geographic size, which
makes systems according to exemplary embodiments of the present
invention well-suited for large or multi-level office
buildings.
[0163] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, wireless communication between system's wireless
components including OFMs, IFMs, SPs and AP is governed by a
message protocol whose salient features are discussed below in
detail for illustrative purposes and to facilitate a more complete
understanding of certain exemplary embodiments of the present
invention.
[0164] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, general packet format for wireless communication among
the system's wireless components is shown in Table 1 below.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 1 General Packet Format BYTE 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 0
HEADER BYTE 1 DESTINATION MAC ADDRESS BYTE 4 2 DESTINATION MAC
ADDRESS BYTE 3 3 DESTINATION MAC ADDRESS BYTE 2 4 DESTINATION MAC
ADDRESS BYTE 1 5 AREA CONFIGURATION PARAMETER BYTE 6 ZONE
CONFIGURATION PARAMETER BYTE 7 GROUP CONFIGURATION PARAMETER BYTE 2
8 GROUP CONFIGURATION PARAMETER BYTE 1 9 MESSAGE TYPE BYTE 2 10
MESSAGE TYPE BYTE 1 11 DATA LENGTH (N) 12 DATA PAD LENGTH (P) (13)
DATA BYTE 1 (14) DATA BYTE 2 . . . . . . (12 + N) DATA BYTE N (13 +
N) PAD BYTE 1 (0X00) . . . . . . (12 + N + P) PAD BYTE P (0x00) 13
+ N + P CRC BYTE 2 14 + N + P CRC BYTE 1 Header Byte: 0x01 - ASCI
Start of Header Character (SOH) Destination MAC Address: This is an
8 nibble word to hold the least significant portion of the MAC
address. Use 0xFFFFFFFF for any message that will be addressed to
multiple units. Area Configuration Parameter: This byte can be used
to address a message to any one of 64 possible customer areas. Use
0xFF to send to all customer areas. Zone Configuration Parameter:
This byte can be used to address a message to any one of 64
possible customer zones. Use 0xFF to send to all customer zones.
Group Configuration Parameter Bytes: This 16-bit field allows a
message to be addressed to multiple customer groups in a given Area
& Zone. Use 0xFFFF to send to all groups. Message Type: This
16-bit field indicates the message function. It is populated by an
enumerated list. Data Length: Indicates number of bytes making up
broadcast message can be 0 to 33. Data Pad Length: The data
encryption algorithm requires the total packet length to be a
multiple of 16. This byte can be 0-15, representing the number of
padding characters added. On an empty data field message, there
will be 1 padding byte. Data Byte 1-N: Message data, 0 to 33 bytes.
Pad Byte 1-P: 0x00, Message padding, 0 to 15 bytes. CRC: 16-bit CRC
of byte 0 through byte 17 + N + P. The Polynomial used is
0x1021.
[0165] The exemplary message structure includes a Destination
Address in bytes 1-4 (the "To" address) but intentionally omits the
source ("From") address field. Messages according to the exemplary
protocol may be Unicast, Multicast or Broadcast.
[0166] For example, Unicast messages are used to communicate from
the AP to a single node (constituted by, for example, an OFM, IFM
or SP). In this case, the destination MAC Address of the node is
filled out, but the Area, Zone and Group Configuration Parameter
Bytes are not used. If information is to be returned in the
response from the single node, the address of the AP is loaded in
the data field (bytes 13-16).
[0167] An example of a Unicast message is shown in Table 2 below
(in the example, this message is used to retrieve the current
Voltage Magnitude reading at a Node).
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 2 Get Voltage Magnitude Message Format BYTE 7
6 5 4 3 2 1 0 0 0x01 1-8 UNICAST ADDRESSING 9 0x10 10 0x51 11 0x04
12 0x0D 13-16 ACCESS POINT MAC ADDRESS 17-29 0x00 30 CRC BYTE 2 31
CRC BYTE 1 Addressing: Unicast Addressing Message Type: 0x1051 Data
Length: 0x04 Data Pad Length: 0x0D Access Point MAC Address:
Addressing for response Pad Bytes: 0x00
[0168] The response to this message is shown in Table 3 below. The
destination address field is populated with the address of the AP
that requested the information. The return data is in the data
field. However, there is no source "From" address anywhere in the
response packet. That is, according to an exemplary implementation,
the AP keeps track of requests and matches responses to requests
within its internal database.
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 3 Voltage Magnitude Response Format BYTE 7 6 5
4 3 2 1 0 0 0x01 1-8 ACCESS POINT MAC ADDRESS 9 0x20 10 0x51 11
0x02 12 0x0F 13 VOLTAGE 2 14 VOLTAGE 1 15-29 0x00 30 CRC BYTE 2 31
CRC BYTE 1 Addressing: The MAC Address of the requesting Access
Point Message Type: 0x2051 Data Length: 0x02 Data Pad Length: 0x0F
Pad Byte 1-15: 0x00 Voltage: The magnitude reading of the AC
voltage at the node as a 16 bit unsigned number (Vx100).
[0169] The Node Find Message is an example of a message that can
either be Multicast or Broadcast. In both cases, bytes 1-4 are set
to 0xFFFF. The data field, contained in bytes 13-16 is set to the
source MAC address of the Access Point. If the message is a
Broadcast message, bytes 5-8 are also set to 0xFFFF. This indicates
that the message should be acted upon by all devices. If the
message is a Multicast message, the Area, Zone and Group fields are
populated. Devices that are set to the corresponding Area, Zone and
Group respond to this type of message.
[0170] In an exemplary implementation, the Node Finding message, as
illustrated in Table 4 below, can be used by participants during
network discovery to identify what nodes are within range. Because
the targets are not known at start, it should be sent as a
broadcast or area/zone/group-cast format only.
TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 4 Node Find Message Format BYTE 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
0 0 0x01 1-8 BROADCAST OR AREA/ZONE/ GROUP-CAST ADDRESSING 9 0x10
10 0x02 11 0x04 12 0x0D 13-16 SOURCE MAC ADDRESS 17-29 0x00 30 CRC
BYTE 2 31 CRC BYTE 1 Addressing: Broadcast or Area/Zone/Group-cast
only Message Type: 0x1002 Data Length: 0x04 Data Pad Length: 0x0D
Source MAC Address: The MAC address of the Access Point doing the
discovery Pad Byte: 0x00
[0171] The response to the Node Find Message is the Who Am I
Response, as illustrated in the example of Table 5 below.
Independent of whether the original Node Find Message was addressed
to all nodes (Broadcast) or a subset of the nodes (Multicast), the
response is always Unicast. Each node sends a response back to the
AP that sent out the message. The destination address field is
populated with the address of the AP. The return data includes the
Node's "From" address and area/zone/group configuration parameters,
but does not include any sensor data.
[0172] In an exemplary implementation, a generic response to a Node
Find Message contains information about the sender for forming a
network topology.
TABLE-US-00006 TABLE 5 Who Am I Response Format BYTE 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
0 0 0x01 1-8 ACCESS POINT MAC ADDRESS 9 0x20 10 0x02 11 0x0B 12
0x06 13 MY FACILITY BYTE 2 14 MY FACILITY BYTE 1 15 MY MAC ADDRESS
BYTE 4 16 MY MAC ADDRESS BYTE 3 17 MY MAC ADDRESS BYTE 2 18 MY MAC
ADDRESS BYTE 1 19 MY AREA CONFIGURATION PARAMETER BYTE 20 MY ZONE
CONFIGURATION PARAMETER BYTE 21 MY GROUP CONFIGURATION PARAMETER
BYTE 2 22 MY GROUP CONFIGURATION PARAMETER BYTE 1 23 DEVICE TYPE
BYTE 24-29 0x00 30 CRC BYTE 2 31 CRC BYTE 1 Addressing: The
addressing for this message is the MAC Address that was in the Node
Find Message. Message Type: 0x2002 Data Length: 0x0B Data Pad
Length: 0x06 My Facility: The Network ID from the Radio paired with
the node My MAC Address: The MAC Address from the Radio paired with
the nod. My Area Config: What the STM32 has in FLASH for local Area
Configuration Parameter My Zone Config: What the STM32 has in FLASH
for local Zone Configuration Parameter My Group Config: What the
STM32 has in FLASH for local Group Configuration Parameter Device
Type: Enumerated code for the type of device that is responding
[0173] As noted above, according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention, system components can be arranged as illustrated
in FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0174] In an exemplary implementation of a message protocol
according to the present invention, messages transmitted among the
OFM, IFM, SP and AP do not have a "From" address field, only the
"To" address field. Messages transmitted from AP to OFM, IFM, and
SP include "Node Find" and "Get Information" messages. Messages
transmitted from the OFM, IFP and SP to the AP include "Who Am I
Response" and "Information Response" messages.
[0175] For example, the "Node Find" message from the AP to the
node(s) can be Broadcast for reply by all node(s), or Multicast for
reply by certain node(s), and includes AP's "From" address in the
message, but no sensor data. In reply to the "Node Find" message,
each of the addressed node(s) sends a "Who Am I Response" message
that includes the node's From address and configuration parameters,
but does not have any sensor data.
[0176] On the other hand, according to yet another exemplary
implementation, the "Get Information" messages from the AP are
always Unicast for reply by a specific node (e.g., an AP with a
connected OS) and include the AP's "From" address in the message,
but no data from OS. In reply to the "Get Information" message, the
specific node sends an "Information Response" message that has the
OS data (for the OS associated with the node), but does not have
the node's "From" address because the AP knows which node it asked
to send the information.
[0177] The following table summarizes the differences in these
exemplary implementations:
TABLE-US-00007 Node AP Message Responding Node Response "All
addressed Nodes, who All "Access Point, node is on the network?"
addressed identifying information." (aka: Node Find) Nodes (aka:
Who Am I Response) "Node X, give me your Node X "Access Point,
sensor data." sensor data" (aka: Information Response) (aka: Get
Information)
[0178] Although exemplary embodiments of the present invention have
been disclosed for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art
will appreciate that various modifications, additions, and
substitutions are possible, without departing from the scope of the
present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited
to the above-described embodiments, but is defined by the following
claims, along with their full scope of equivalents.
* * * * *